Humanafterall
10-25-2007, 04:15 PM
As a Universal Design consultant I had my first consulting business meeting (one-on-one) with a building supply store; today (10/25/07). The designer met me at my house. The perfect show room. I explained what services I can offer the company and their clients.
The reason why I built a home is to start up a consulting business to help other people live in their homes as long as possible, regardless of age and ability.
What is Universal Design you may be asking??? The "professional definition" of Universal Design is: Universal design is the design of products and environments that are usable by all people, of all ages and abilities, without the need for specialized design.
Universal Design is different then the American with Disabilities Act in one important aspect. Where the Americans with Disabilities act focuses on the guidelines and standards regarding the lives of people with disabilities; Universal Design focus on design principles that help everyone.
I am very proud of the fact that I drew up, designed and built my own house. It is totally accessible for my abilities. I know how hard it is to find products and services for a home for people with varied abilities. In my business I will use my house as a "showcase" to show people (clients-building business agencies and/or their cliental) what services I can provide to them. I want to help people find products/services to enable them to live in their own homes as long as possible. I'm "banking" on the idea that people would rather stay in their own homes as long as possible rather then move to another facility (assisted living or nursing homes) as they grow older and their needs change. This new phenomian in America is called "Aging in Place"
Here is a picture of my house. Cute isn't it. :D
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g208/KateB_2006/Bluehousereddoor.jpg
I am proud to report that I "ace-d" the meeting. :thumbup: My next meeting is Tuesday.
Kate
The reason why I built a home is to start up a consulting business to help other people live in their homes as long as possible, regardless of age and ability.
What is Universal Design you may be asking??? The "professional definition" of Universal Design is: Universal design is the design of products and environments that are usable by all people, of all ages and abilities, without the need for specialized design.
Universal Design is different then the American with Disabilities Act in one important aspect. Where the Americans with Disabilities act focuses on the guidelines and standards regarding the lives of people with disabilities; Universal Design focus on design principles that help everyone.
I am very proud of the fact that I drew up, designed and built my own house. It is totally accessible for my abilities. I know how hard it is to find products and services for a home for people with varied abilities. In my business I will use my house as a "showcase" to show people (clients-building business agencies and/or their cliental) what services I can provide to them. I want to help people find products/services to enable them to live in their own homes as long as possible. I'm "banking" on the idea that people would rather stay in their own homes as long as possible rather then move to another facility (assisted living or nursing homes) as they grow older and their needs change. This new phenomian in America is called "Aging in Place"
Here is a picture of my house. Cute isn't it. :D
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g208/KateB_2006/Bluehousereddoor.jpg
I am proud to report that I "ace-d" the meeting. :thumbup: My next meeting is Tuesday.
Kate